Tips for Choosing Bridesmaids
Choosing your bridesmaids is fun and exhilarating. However, it can also be a bit stressful. After all, you don’t want anyone to feel left out. But, at the same time, you also don’t want to place a financial burden on anyone. Plus, you want to ensure the people you care about most are standing next to you on your big day. That all adds up to a lot of pressure. But, take a deep breath and just consider a few helpful tips for getting the bridesmaids list just right.
Less is More
First things first, you might be tempted to invite everyone you ever had a slumber party with to be your bridesmaid. However, that’s not really the best idea. When it comes to bridal parties, less is more. The more bridesmaids you have, the more dresses there are to order, the more schedules you have to juggle, and the more you have to spend on things like floral arrangements and gifts for the bridal party. Unless money is no object, it’s probably best to carefully limit the number of bridesmaids you choose.
Consider the Responsibility Factor
Remember, too, that being a bridesmaid is a responsibility as much as it’s an honor. There will be events to attend, plans to make, and dates to keep. Thus, if you have a friend or two who perhaps is a little flighty or not so reliable, you might want to think twice before asking them to be a bridesmaid.
Keep in mind, as well, that most bridesmaids will make some kind of financial investment to be a part of the wedding. Whether it’s paying for their dress, hair and makeup, or all of the above, being in a wedding party can get pricey. Be careful about asking those who might not have the finances to participate, or, at the very least, offer to help in some way if you feel a bridesmaid might face a financial burden by being in your wedding.
Don’t Cause Rifts
Finally, whenever possible, avoid extending any bridesmaid invitations that have the potential to cause drama. If you invite one sister, for example, you wouldn’t want to not invite the other. Or, in some cases, couples may be offended if the woman is invited to be a bridesmaid while the man isn’t invited to be a groomsman. Of course, you also have to think about your feelings too. After all, it is your big day. But, do try your best to be reasonable and considerate whenever possible. And, talk openly and honestly with people about your choices to try and avoid any hurt feelings or misunderstandings.
The bridesmaid invitation is almost as important as the proposal that started it all! Well, maybe not quite, but it’s still important. Thus, take it seriously and don’t forget to incorporate these tips with care.
